Framer Operator

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer Operator

Company: Heliene

Location: Mountain Iron, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: Full Time - Hourly

Category: Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Operates key framing equipment (Autobus and Framer) to ensure continuous production of high-efficiency solar modules in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

• Plays a leadership role on the production floor by training junior operators and serving as a flexible resource to backfill open positions across multiple production areas.

• Upholds stringent quality control standards through regular testing and adherence to established criteria at each stage of the assembly line.

• Maintains a safe, clean, and organized work environment in compliance with all health and safety policies and procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level manufacturing operator with a clear path for advancement into a lead or trainer capacity. The "Framer Operator" title implies direct responsibility for automated framing machinery critical to solar module assembly. The emphasis on training and backfilling indicates a need for versatile individuals who can quickly learn and adapt to different production processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor Autobus and Framer equipment, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to production schedules.

• Feed raw materials and components into semi-automated manufacturing machinery.

• Conduct quality checks and perform testing procedures at various stages of the photovoltaic module assembly process to meet defined quality criteria.

• Proactively identify and report any defective materials, equipment malfunctions, or questionable conditions to the Production Supervisor.

• Maintain a high standard of workplace cleanliness and organization, ensuring the work area is kept in an orderly condition according to 5S principles.

• Train and mentor new or junior operators on equipment operation, quality standards, and safety protocols.

• Learn and become proficient in multiple production line areas to provide relief and support as needed, ensuring continuous 24/7 operations.

• Strictly adhere to all company health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures, including those for a Safety Sensitive Position.

• Perform minor troubleshooting on equipment and escalate complex issues to maintenance or supervisory staff.

• Contribute to process improvement initiatives by providing feedback on operational efficiency and quality enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on machine operation, quality assurance, and team support. The requirement to train junior operators and learn multiple areas suggests a progression path within the production team, emphasizing leadership potential and operational versatility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will also be considered. Experience:

• No prior experience is strictly necessary; comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided.

• Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating strong technical capabilities and prior manufacturing experience. Required Skills:

• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions in English.

• Strong attention to detail for precise operation and quality assessment.

• Basic troubleshooting skills to identify and report issues.

• Capacity to maintain production and quality standards consistently.

• Commitment to following all company safety policies and procedures.

• Ability to perform repetitive motion tasks and stand for extended periods.

• Physical ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

• Comfort working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Preferred Skills:

• Previous manufacturing experience, particularly in an assembly line setting.

• Soldering experience.

• Computer proficiency for data entry, system monitoring, or reporting.

• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to tasks and learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "no experience necessary" with "on-the-job training" positions this role as highly accessible for entry-level candidates. However, the preference for technical capabilities, manufacturing experience, and specific skills like soldering indicates that candidates with these attributes will have a competitive advantage. The requirement for English proficiency is standard for US-based roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of past work demonstrating attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, or any technical projects they have completed.

• For candidates with prior manufacturing experience, be ready to discuss specific processes or systems they have worked with and how they contributed to efficiency or quality improvements.

• Showcase an understanding of quality control principles and how they were applied in previous roles, even if not in a formal manufacturing setting.

• Highlight any experience with documentation or reporting related to production, quality, or safety. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to learn and follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for machine operation, quality checks, and safety protocols.

• Demonstrate an ability to adhere to documented workflows and provide feedback on potential process optimizations.

• Understand the importance of accurate data recording for production tracking and quality assurance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level operator role, a traditional portfolio is unlikely. The emphasis here is on practical demonstration of skills and understanding during interviews and potentially through hands-on assessments. Candidates should focus on articulating their learning aptitude and commitment to process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base Wage: $22.50 per hour

• Potential Maximum Wage: $23.50 per hour

• Shift Differential: An additional $1.00 per hour premium for night shifts. Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Health insurance (100% employer-paid for employees)

  • Dental insurance (100% employer-paid for employees)

  • Vision insurance (100% employer-paid for employees)

  • 50% co-pay for spouse/dependents on health, dental, and vision plans.

  • Life insurance.

  • Paid Time Off (PTO).

  • Retirement plans, including a 401K. Working Hours:

• Shift work is required, with rotating 12-hour shifts.

• The schedule follows a 4 days on, 4 days off rotation.

• This position is classified as Full Time - Hourly, typically implying a 40-hour work week averaged over the rotation cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for an entry-level manufacturing role in the Rogers, MN area. The inclusion of a night shift differential and a robust benefits package, particularly the 100% employer-paid premiums for employees, makes this an attractive offering. The 12-hour, 4-on/4-off schedule is a common and often preferred shift pattern in manufacturing for providing extended time off.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Renewable Energy / Solar Module Manufacturing

Heliene operates in the rapidly growing renewable energy sector, specifically focusing on the manufacturing of high-efficiency solar modules. This industry is driven by global efforts to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, presenting a mission-oriented work environment.

Company Size: Heliene is a growing company, indicated by its expansion into manufacturing facilities in multiple locations, including Ontario, Canada, and Minnesota, USA. This suggests a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment where individual contributions can have a significant impact.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, the company's description as "fast-paced" and "entrepreneurial" implies a relatively modern and agile organizational structure.

Team Structure:

• The Framer Operator will be part of the Production Department, working within a team of Operators.

• Supervision is received from a Production Supervisor.

• The role does not involve direct supervision of other employees.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow operators, supervisors, and potentially maintenance or quality assurance personnel. Methodology:

• Heliene emphasizes a "Customer First" approach, suggesting a focus on product quality and reliability.

• The manufacturing process involves state-of-the-art solar manufacturing lines, indicating a commitment to modern, efficient production techniques.

• Continuous 24/7 production highlights the importance of operational uptime and team coordination.

• The company culture fosters growth opportunities, intellectual challenges, and flexibility.

Company Website: https://www.heliene.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Heliene's mission to contribute to climate solutions is a strong cultural differentiator. The company's growth and multi-location presence suggest opportunities for career development. The "Customer First" principle likely translates to a strong emphasis on product quality and operational excellence within the production team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as an Entry-Level Operator (0-2 years of experience). It serves as a foundational position within the manufacturing operations team.

Reporting Structure: The Framer Operator reports directly to the Production Supervisor. This is a standard hierarchical structure within manufacturing environments, ensuring clear lines of communication and accountability.

Operations Impact: Framer Operators are critical to the direct manufacturing process of solar modules. Their efficiency, accuracy, and adherence to quality standards directly impact the company's ability to meet production targets, deliver high-quality products to customers, and contribute to Heliene's mission in the renewable energy sector. As a Framer Operator, you are a key contributor to the physical creation of products that drive the company's revenue and environmental impact.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in operating advanced manufacturing equipment (Autobus and Framer), gain experience in quality control, and learn multiple production line functions.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated aptitude and willingness, there's a clear path to become a Senior Operator, Trainer, or Lead Hand, taking on more responsibility for guiding junior staff and ensuring line performance.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Potential to gain exposure to other areas of manufacturing operations, including quality assurance, maintenance, and supply chain logistics, through collaborative efforts and relief assignments.

• Industry Advancement: Develop expertise in the rapidly growing solar energy manufacturing sector, a field with increasing demand for skilled professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is explicitly designed for growth, with defined pathways to leadership and advanced operational roles. The emphasis on training and backfilling is a strong indicator of internal mobility and development opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Manufacturing Facility

The work environment is a modern, fast-paced manufacturing facility focused on assembling solar modules.

Office Location(s):

• Mountain Iron, Minnesota. This location is part of Heliene's US manufacturing footprint. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Operators work within a team, requiring effective communication and coordination with colleagues and supervisors.

• Tools and Technology: Access to state-of-the-art Autobus and Framer equipment, along with other semi-automated machinery. The environment is likely equipped with necessary safety features and potentially basic computer systems for monitoring or data logging.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with fellow operators, production supervisors, and potentially quality control personnel to ensure smooth workflow and product integrity.

Work Schedule:

• The schedule involves rotating 12-hour shifts with a 4 days on, 4 days off rotation. This pattern offers extended blocks of consecutive days off, balancing operational needs with employee work-life balance. The role is designated as "Safety Sensitive."

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a modern manufacturing setting, prioritizing safety, efficiency, and teamwork. The 12-hour shifts are a key characteristic of the work schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume via the Heliene Career Center.

• Initial Screening: Review of applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and alignment with role requirements.

• Interview(s): Likely includes one or more interviews with a Production Supervisor and potentially an HR representative. This may involve behavioral questions, technical aptitude assessments, and a discussion of prior experience.

• Skills Assessment/Plant Tour: Candidates may be asked to participate in a hands-on assessment demonstrating basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, or the ability to follow instructions. A tour of the facility might also be part of the process.

• Background Checks: Successful candidates will undergo a criminal background check and drug screening, as this is a Safety Sensitive Position.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, prepare to discuss:

  • Examples of your attention to detail in previous roles or personal projects.

  • Instances where you followed complex instructions or procedures accurately.

  • Any experience troubleshooting problems, even in non-work contexts.

  • Your approach to learning new tasks or equipment.

  • If you have previous manufacturing experience, be ready to describe the types of machines you operated and the quality standards you upheld. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential practical assessments:

  • Following Instructions: A task requiring you to follow a set of written or verbal instructions precisely.
  • Assembly Task: A simple assembly task to gauge manual dexterity and attention to detail.
  • Problem Identification: Presented with a scenario (e.g., a slightly damaged component), how would you identify and report it?

• Think about how you would approach learning a new machine or process.

• Consider how you would ensure safety and quality in your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical skills and the ability to learn, reflecting the entry-level nature of the role. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate their aptitude and commitment to safety and quality rather than presenting a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autobus Equipment: Specialized machinery for solar module framing.

• Framer Equipment: Specialized machinery for solar module framing.

• Semi-Automated Machines: Various machines used in the solar module assembly line.

• Material Handling Equipment: Potentially basic tools for moving raw materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Production Monitoring Systems: Likely basic systems for tracking output, uptime, and potentially quality metrics.

• Quality Testing Equipment: Tools and gauges used to perform quality checks on modules.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly operating CRM systems, an understanding of how production data feeds into broader operational systems (ERP, MES) can be beneficial.

• Familiarity with automated processes and the ability to work alongside automated machinery is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "tools" are the specialized manufacturing equipment. While advanced software skills are not primary requirements, basic computer literacy is a plus, suggesting potential interaction with digital interfaces for machine operation or data logging.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, especially given the "Safety Sensitive Position" designation. Adherence to all safety protocols is non-negotiable.

• Quality Driven: Commitment to producing high-quality solar modules that meet stringent standards, reflecting the "Customer First" philosophy.

• Efficiency and Productivity: Focus on maintaining continuous 24/7 production through effective machine operation and teamwork.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively within a team to achieve production goals, support colleagues, and ensure smooth operations.

• Continuous Improvement: Openness to learning new processes, providing feedback, and adapting to evolving manufacturing techniques.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on and Direct: Operators work closely together on the production floor, requiring clear verbal communication and mutual support.

• Structured Interaction: Collaboration is guided by established procedures, safety protocols, and supervision from the Production Supervisor.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraged through the training of junior operators and providing relief across different production areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Heliene's culture appears to be built around core manufacturing principles: safety, quality, efficiency, and teamwork, all within the context of a mission-driven company.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace of Production: Working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with continuous 24/7 operations can be demanding.

• Repetitive Tasks: Performing repetitive motion tasks for extended periods requires focus and physical stamina.

• Shift Work: Adapting to rotating 12-hour shifts and night differentials.

• Learning Curve: Quickly mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and understanding quality control standards.

• Safety Awareness: Maintaining constant vigilance in a Safety Sensitive environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Gaining hands-on experience with advanced solar module manufacturing machinery.

• Operational Versatility: Learning multiple roles within the production line to become a valuable, flexible team member.

• Leadership Training: Developing skills in training, mentoring, and potentially leading small teams as a Senior Operator or Trainer.

• Industry Insight: Understanding the intricacies of solar energy manufacturing, a key sector in the global transition to sustainable energy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for manufacturing roles, but the growth opportunities are clearly defined, offering a pathway for motivated individuals to advance their careers within Heliene.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Acumen: "Describe a time you had to follow a detailed set of instructions. How did you ensure accuracy?" "How do you approach learning a new skill or operating a new piece of equipment?" "What does quality mean to you in a manufacturing context?"

• Teamwork & Leadership: "How do you handle working as part of a team, especially during busy periods?" "Imagine you need to train a new colleague on this machine. What would be your first steps?" "How would you handle a situation where a colleague is not following safety procedures?"

• Problem-Solving: "If you noticed a defect in a product you were working on, what would you do?" "Describe a time you identified a problem and reported it. What was the outcome?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in the solar energy industry?"

• "Why Heliene specifically?"

• "What do you understand about our 'Customer First' philosophy?"

• "How do you feel about working a 12-hour rotating shift schedule?"

• "What does a 'Safety Sensitive Position' mean to you?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on verbal examples:

  • Prepare 2-3 concise "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples demonstrating your attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, or teamwork.

  • Be ready to discuss any relevant technical aptitude or hands-on experience, even from hobbies or personal projects.

  • Clearly articulate your understanding of the importance of safety and quality in a manufacturing setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety and quality, a willingness to learn, and good interpersonal skills suitable for a team-based manufacturing environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Heliene Career Center link provided in the job posting.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any manufacturing, assembly, technical, or quality control experience. Emphasize attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and any experience with machinery or tools. If you have no direct experience, focus on transferable skills such as reliability, problem-solving aptitude, and a strong work ethic.

• Prepare for Practical Assessment: Be ready for potential hands-on tasks or scenarios during the interview process to demonstrate your mechanical aptitude, fine motor skills, and ability to follow directions accurately.

• Research Heliene: Familiarize yourself with Heliene's mission, products, and commitment to sustainability. Understand their "Customer First" approach and their role in the renewable energy sector.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your suitability for an entry-level manufacturing role, your understanding of safety and quality, and your enthusiasm for learning.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.